Contact Lenses for Astigmatism in Beverly Hills
Astigmatism makes vision blurry or distorted at all distances. Contact lenses designed for astigmatism correct the uneven shape of the eye and give patients clearer, more stable vision. Visioncare Associates has fit specialty contact lenses since 1964, and Dr. Shily fits lenses for mild to high astigmatism at the Beverly Hills office.
What Is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism happens when the cornea or the lens inside the eye is shaped more like a football than a basketball. Light focuses on more than one point in the eye, which causes blurry vision and eye strain. Many people have some degree of astigmatism along with nearsightedness or farsightedness.
Standard spherical contact lenses do not correct astigmatism. Patients with astigmatism need lenses made to correct the uneven curve of the eye.
Contact Lens Options for Astigmatism
Toric Soft Lenses
Toric soft lenses have different powers in different parts of the lens. They are weighted so they stay in the right position on the eye. Toric lenses are often used for mild to moderate astigmatism.
Gas Permeable Lenses
Gas permeable lenses keep their shape on the eye. The tear layer between the lens and the cornea fills in the uneven areas, which gives sharp vision for many patients with astigmatism.
Hybrid Lenses
Hybrid lenses have a gas permeable center with a soft outer skirt. They combine the clear vision of a rigid lens with the comfort of a soft lens.
Scleral Lenses
Scleral lenses vault over the cornea and rest on the white of the eye. They are an option for high astigmatism or irregular astigmatism caused by keratoconus, corneal surgery or injury.
Who Needs Specialty Lenses for Astigmatism
Patients who see well with toric soft lenses can often wear them comfortably. Specialty lenses may help patients who:
-
Have high astigmatism that soft lenses do not fully correct
-
Have irregular astigmatism from keratoconus or a corneal transplant
-
Notice blurry vision when their soft toric lenses rotate
-
Have had trouble with comfort or vision in other contact lenses
The Fitting Process for Astigmatism
1. Corneal Mapping
The office uses Zeiss Atlas corneal topography to map the shape of the cornea. This shows the amount and type of astigmatism and guides the lens choice.
2. Lens Selection and Trial
Dr. Shily selects a lens design and has the patient try it in the office. He checks how the lens sits, how it moves and how well the patient sees.
3. Follow-Up Care
Follow-up visits allow Dr. Shily to check the lens fit and make changes to the power or design for clear, comfortable vision.